Looking to break free from the monotony of traditional meals or simply seeking alternatives to tofu? You’re in luck! Tempeh, a fermented soybean product, is an exciting option that can elevate your culinary game.
The challenge lies in knowing how to prepare it and what to pair it with. When you first bring tempeh home, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the possibilities. But fear not, as we’re here to alleviate those concerns.
With its nutty flavor and firm texture, tempeh is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Today, we’re excited to share 23 mouth-watering tempeh recipes with you! Not only will these ideas inspire you to move beyond tofu, but they’ll also help reduce food waste by providing creative ways to use this nutritious ingredient.
Savory Herb Vegan Tempeh Stew
As the temperature drops on a chilly winter evening, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of stew to envelop you in cozy goodness. This recipe, featuring chunks of tempeh paired with carrots, mushrooms, potatoes, and sweet potatoes, is sure to hit the spot. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – just chop your veggies and let the stew simmer away, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma that will leave everyone craving more.
Plus, with its gluten-free and nut-free status, this hearty meal is accessible to all.
Tempeh Lettuce Wraps
Indulge in a flavorful and satisfying meal without sacrificing animal-based options. Tempting tempeh lettuce wraps, infused with the richness of soy sauce and the sweetness of maple syrup, are an impressive substitute for traditional chicken dishes.
The result is a tender and juicy texture that will deceive even the most discerning meat-lovers. To elevate this dish to new heights, simply wrap your tempeh in crisp lettuce leaves and combine it with your favorite salad fixings.
Tempeh Buddha Bowls
Imagine a vibrant, flavorful bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner on a sunny summer day. As soon as you gaze upon it, you can’t help but feel a sense of joy and warmth. The key to this delightful dish is the marinated and baked tempeh, which brings a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the colorful vegetables and nutty brown rice. To take it to the next level, be sure to add a dollop of creamy tahini on top – it’s the perfect finishing touch!
Lemon Pepper Baked Tempeh Cubes
The lemon cubes boast an impressive depth of flavor courtesy of the harmonious blend of soy sauce, mustard, maple syrup, and zesty lemon marinade. This results in a delightful textural contrast – crispy on the outside, tender and meaty on the inside. We’re confident you’ll find this combination utterly captivating. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but its versatility makes it an excellent addition to any meal: wraps, quinoa bowls, salads, or even a satisfying snack while working.
Marinated Tempeh Salad
Looking for a revitalizing lunch or dinner option? Look no further than this vibrant marinated tempeh salad! By sautéing tempeh with carrots and red peppers, then marinating it in a zesty mixture of lime juice, soy sauce, and maple syrup, you’ll create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The addition of kale and other greens brings a fresh and crunchy texture to the mix.
We recommend preparing this salad ahead of time and letting it sit in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in an intense and satisfying meal.
Vegan Tempeh Thai Peanut Noodles
Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that will leave you craving for more! The harmonious union of tempeh strips, fresh carrots and snap peas is elevated by the rich peanut sauce. For an added layer of texture and flavor, be sure to sprinkle some peanuts and scallions on top. If you’re a fan of pad thai, you’ll find this vegan tempeh noodle dish to be a game-changer. The perfect blend of nutty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors will have you coming back for seconds.
Baked Sticky Tempeh Potstickers
Indulge in these delectable baked potstickers, packed with a harmonious blend of tempeh and vegetables. This versatile treat can be enjoyed as an appetizer, entree, or snack, depending on your craving. For an added layer of flavor and moisture, don’t forget to serve them with a side of soy or sweet chili sauce for dipping. The perfect accompaniment not only complements the dish but also elevates its overall taste experience.
Grilled Tempeh Greek Salad
Embracing the flavors of Greece, we once found ourselves missing the classic combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and savory feta cheese in our vegan lifestyle. That was until we stumbled upon a game-changing recipe that not only replicates the traditional Greek salad but also introduces a creamy, tangy twist. This vegan masterpiece is a cinch to prepare and has quickly become a crowd-pleaser among friends and family. The star of the show?
Tempeh’s impressive ability to mimic the salty, crumbly goodness of feta cheese. So why wait? Dive into this delightful recipe today and discover a whole new world of Greek-inspired flavors!
Cajun Rice And Fried Tempeh Skillet
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful Cajun rice dish with crispy fried tempeh, all within 30 minutes! This quick and easy skillet-based meal is the perfect solution for those busy days when you’re short on time but still crave a satisfying and delicious meal.
Blacked Tempeh With Kale And Avocado
Indulge in the creamy union of blackened tempeh, fresh avocado, and nutritious kale for a quick and satisfying lunch. The combination is elevated by a drizzle of rich, vegan dressing, which infuses each bite with an explosion of flavor. Ditch the notion that salads are dull – this recipe proves that with a few simple ingredients, you can craft a culinary masterpiece.
Air Fryer Spicy Mango Tempeh
If you’re looking to expand the possibilities of your air fryer beyond the usual suspects, look no further than this spicy mango tempeh recipe. With just six ingredients and a cooking time of under 15 minutes, it’s a quick and easy option that can be tailored to suit your taste. Whether you serve it with rice, a fresh salad, or enjoy it on its own, the flexibility is part of its charm. We’re fans of how well this recipe pairs with other ingredients, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Grilled Tempeh With Filipino BBQ Sauce
Indulge in the rich flavors of grilled tempeh smothered in tangy BBQ sauce – a game-changer for veggie lovers! A single bite transports you to a world where meat is no longer the only option, as this savory delight satisfies your cravings. The best part? It’s a breeze to prepare, requiring mere minutes of active cooking time. For optimal flavor, let the tempeh marinate overnight, but even a one-hour soak will yield impressive results.
Fire up your grill, whether indoor or outdoor, and amaze your loved ones with this mouthwatering treat!
Wild Rice And Tempeh Stuffed Acorn Squash
While the stuffed acorn squash recipe may deviate from the others on today’s list, its unique flavor profile and hearty texture make it a standout. As the weather cools down, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household, offering a satisfying blend of wild rice, savory tempeh, and a tangy tahini-pomegranate topping that will leave you wanting more.
While it may require a bit more time and effort than some of our other recipes, the payoff is well worth the investment – so take a deep breath, gather your ingredients, and get ready to cozy up with this Fall favorite.
Marinated Peanut Tempeh
Savoring the delightful combination of flavors, these bite-sized tempeh chunks are truly exceptional. The result of baking them in a rich peanut sauce is nothing short of sensational – a perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes that will leave you craving more. What’s more, their versatility knows no bounds, as they seamlessly complement a wide variety of dishes, making this recipe an absolute standout on our list today.
Teriyaki Tempeh
Indulge in this scrumptious teriyaki tempeh, a dish that’s not only rapid to prepare but also bursts with flavor. The star of the show is the marinated tempeh cubes, smothered in a lusciously sweet and sticky teriyaki sauce before being cooked to golden perfection. This mouthwatering creation can be served alongside a vibrant stir-fry or fluffy rice, elevated by a sprinkle of crispy spring onions for an added burst of freshness.
Tempeh Bolognese
Indulge in this game-changing vegan bolognese recipe, a masterful twist on the classic dish that’s so convincing, even non-vegans won’t notice the difference. Perfect for those embarking on a plant-based journey or simply looking to spice up their meat-free meal routine. To elevate the flavor and nutritional profile, be sure to incorporate nutty, cheesy-tasting nutritional yeast into the sauce, and sprinkle some extra on top when serving. Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you!
Tempeh And Black Bean Burgers
Transform the humble tempeh into a mouth-watering burger patty by combining it with black beans, vegan cheese, and a flax seed egg. This seasoned mixture yields a flavor profile so rich, you’ll hardly miss the meat! The best part? These patties can be cooked to your liking – whether that’s pan-frying for a crispy exterior or baking for a healthier option. And if you’re serving them with some crispy fries, why not simplify things and cook everything in the oven?
Tempeh Tacos
Indulge in a flavorful fiesta with these tacos, generously filled with sautéed tempeh infused with an array of taco spices. The real showstopper is the unconventional avocado-kiwi salad topping – a harmonious blend that will surprise and delight your taste buds. If you’re hesitant to venture out of your comfort zone, rest assured it’s worth the culinary adventure. Feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your tolerance for heat.
Stovetop Tempeh Bacon
Indulge in the rich flavors of bacon without compromising your veggie or vegan diet. This stovetop recipe yields a crispy and crunchy treat that masterfully captures the smoky, sweet, savory, and salty essence of bacon. While it may not be an exact replica, its delectable taste will have you forgetting you’re actually enjoying tempeh when paired with your favorite sandwich or accompanied by a hearty fry-up.
Thai Tempeh Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Indulge in the scrumptious combination of crispy sweet potatoes and savory tempeh, elevated by the harmonious blend of sriracha’s spicy kick and soy sauce’s umami depth. This recipe is a game-changer that will leave you questioning how you ever settled for anything less. With only four simple steps to follow, you’ll be delighting in these loaded sweet potatoes in no time.
Korean Barbecue Tempeh Wraps
We’re big fans of these Korean wraps – they’re perfect for a speedy lunch or as part of a satisfying dinner combo with a fresh salad or crispy fries. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to prepare, just be mindful not to overstuff the wrap, or you might find yourself struggling to get it wrapped up neatly.
When you do get the filling just right, the tempeh pairs beautifully with the spicy gochujang and tangy kimchi, making for a flavor-packed wrap that’s sure to make you forget all about tofu – it’s that good!
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta With Tempeh
Indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors as this tempeh-infused pasta combines the richness of tomatoes and cream with a boost of protein. Savor every bite of the creamy sauce, made with vegan cheese, butter, and nutritional yeast, accompanied by the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes and your preferred pasta shape. What’s more? This delectable vegan-friendly dinner can be prepared in no time, making it the perfect choice to unwind after a long day at work.
Final Thoughts
Here’s your comprehensive guide to 23 mouthwatering tempeh recipes that will revolutionize your plant-based cooking experience. Whether you’re in the mood for something new and exciting or a familiar favorite, we’ve got you covered. With these recipes, you’ll discover that tempeh is more than just a tofu alternative – it’s a culinary game-changer.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.